What is a Home Report and Do I Need One for Edinburgh?
- Sean McMahon
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 15
If you’re thinking about selling your home in Edinburgh – or anywhere in Scotland – you’ve likely heard of a Home Report. But what exactly is it, and why is it so important?
At The Property Experts, we guide sellers through the entire process, from valuation to completion – including organising your Home Report with trusted local surveyors. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Home Report?
A Home Report is a legal requirement for most residential properties being sold in Scotland. Introduced by the Scottish Government in 2008, it ensures buyers have clear, upfront information about a property’s condition, value, and energy efficiency – helping them make informed decisions.
Put simply, you must have a Home Report in place before marketing your property for sale (with very limited exceptions, such as new builds or genuinely off-market sales).
Why is a Home Report Important for Edinburgh?
In today’s competitive market – especially here in Edinburgh – buyers expect transparency. A Home Report:
Builds trust by offering an independent view of your property’s condition and value
Speeds up the selling process by answering key questions early
Helps avoid surprises or renegotiations later on
Is legally required, so not having one can delay or even halt your sale
What’s Included in a Home Report?
A Home Report is made up of three key documents, all prepared by a qualified Chartered Surveyor:
1. Single Survey
This is the most detailed section of the report. It includes:
An assessment of the property’s condition, covering the roof, walls, windows, plumbing, electrics, damp, rot, and more
A valuation of the property, giving buyers a guide to its market worth
A Repair Category rating (1 to 3), highlighting any areas that may need attention
💡 Tip from The Property Experts: In Edinburgh’s competitive market, small pre-sale repairs based on this report can often result in a higher final sale price.
2. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
The EPC shows:
How energy efficient the property is (rated from A to G)
Typical running costs for heating, lighting and hot water
Recommendations for improving efficiency (like upgrading insulation or installing double glazing)
With energy costs rising, this section is becoming more important to buyers every year.
3. Property Questionnaire
This part is completed by you, the seller, and includes:
Information on council tax band, parking arrangements, any building works or alterations, and any issues with boundaries or neighbours
Details of any repairs, guarantees, or planning permissions
Being thorough and honest here helps avoid disputes later in the process.
Do I Really Need One for Edinburgh?
Yes – unless your home qualifies for one of the rare exemptions (such as selling to a family member privately or selling a plot with no dwelling), a Home Report is required by law before you can start marketing your property.
How Much Does a Home Report Cost?
Costs vary depending on the size and type of property, but typically range between £350–£800. At The Property Experts, we work with trusted, RICS-registered surveyors and can help you secure a competitively priced report with fast turnaround times. We also do not 'mark-up' the costs of a Home Report by adding a hidden commission on top.
Let Us Take Care of It
Selling your home can feel overwhelming – but we’re here to make it easier.
At The Property Experts, we don’t just list your property – we personally manage every step of your move, including:
Organising the Home Report on your behalf
Advising on repairs or presentation based on the findings
Preparing your home for market with expert staging, photography and marketing
Negotiating the best possible sale price
Ready to Sell in Edinburgh?
Whether you’re based in Edinburgh's city centre, South Queensferry, or out towards Linlithgow, we’re here to help with the whole selling process, including Home Reports - Contact Sean McMahon – The Edinburgh Property Expert today to get your free valuation and expert advice on getting started.
📞 Call us on 0131 510 0215 or drop us a WhatsApp message via the following link:
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